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HomeRepair HelpBosch Refrigerator RepairBosch Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell Repair
Bosch Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell
A burning or unpleasant smell from a Bosch refrigerator usually has a hardware cause you can find without calling a tech. Start by checking the fridge light first; a bulb that stays on or an old incandescent can get hot and smell like something burning, and it’s a quick swap if the fridge light not working is the issue. If the smell comes from the compressor area, the compressor start device or relay is a likely culprit when the compressor tries to start but won't. Next inspect the power cord and wall outlet for burn marks or a loose fit, then check the condenser fan motor for overheating or burned wiring. Less commonly, a pinched or shorted wire connector or a failing control board can produce a burnt odor. Always cut power before you inspect electrical components and use a multimeter to verify suspected failures. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to see parts that fit your exact refrigerator and get the replacement start relay, bulb, cord, fan motor, connector, or control board you need.
01 - Bosch Refrigerator Light Bulb
Make sure the light is not staying on when the door is closed. A regular incandescent bulb can get hot and produce a burning smell.
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Top Solution
02 - Bosch Refrigerator Compressor
The compressor start device, also known as a start relay or start relay and overload kit, may have failed. This will usually cause the compressor to not start. If the burning smell is coming from the compresser area check the start device. If the start device smells burnt, or the compressor is trying to start but can't, the start device is likely bad and will need to be replaced.
Highly Likely
03 - Bosch Refrigerator Power Cord
Inspect the power cord prongs and wall receptacle for burn marks. The cord should plug tightly into the receptacle. A power cord that is hot is a sign of a bad connection. If the power cord is burnt or damaged it will need to be replaced. If the cord is loose in the receptacle, the receptacle will need to be replaced by a licensed electrician.
Common
04 - Bosch Refrigerator Condenser Fan Motor
If the burning smell appears to be coming from the exterior of the refrigerator, it's possible the condenser fan motor is wearing out or overheating. You should inspect the component for any burn marks, especially near the wire connection points, and use a multimeter to test the motor for electrical continuity to help determine if the component has burned out.
Less Common
05 - Bosch Refrigerator Wire Connector
Inspect the wiring and connectors in the area of the smell. A bad connection or pinched or shorted wire can produce a burning smell.
Less Common
06 - Bosch Refrigerator Control Board
If one of the components has failed it can produce a burning smell from that area. Look for a stuck fan motor or a shorted control board.
Less Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Fridge light not working, or staying on — can it cause a burning smell?
Fridge not cooling but freezer works — could the compressor start relay be the cause?
Refrigerator control panel not working — can a bad control board cause a burning smell?
Refrigerator runs constantly and I smell something from the back — could the condenser fan motor or power cord be the culprit?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?
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